When summer heat hits, we crave dishes that are light, refreshing, and absolutely bursting with color. That’s exactly what this Zingy Courgette & Cherry Ribbon Salad is all about. It’s elegant enough for a garden party, but easy enough for a quick weeknight side.
If you’re looking for a vegan summer salad with courgette ribbons and cherries, this recipe is your new go-to sunshine dish.
Courgette Ribbons = Instant Summer Chic
We love how thinly shaved courgette (aka zucchini) gives this salad a silky, delicate texture without any cooking involved. It’s cooling, hydrating, and beautiful on the plate.
This raw courgette salad with citrus vinaigrette is a perfect way to highlight summer produce in the most elegant way possible.
Cherries Add Sweet, Juicy Contrast
Ripe, fresh cherries are such a summery indulgence—and here, they balance the light tang of courgette with juicy sweetness. They bring flavor and flair to every bite.
For a vegan cherry salad recipe with zucchini, this combination of sweet and savory is an absolute flavor win.
The Citrus Dressing: Bright, Bold, Beautiful
A simple lemony vinaigrette with a hint of mustard and maple syrup brings everything together with zing. It wakes up the flavors and complements both the fruit and veg.
Searching for a lemon vinaigrette for zucchini ribbon salad? This dressing is quick to make and incredibly versatile.
Mint + Toasted Almonds = Crunch + Cool
We sprinkle in fresh mint for a refreshing lift and toasted almonds for a bit of crunch—it’s the little things that make this salad extra memorable.
This courgette salad with mint and nuts is texturally exciting and full of contrasts in every forkful.
Serve It Anywhere, Anytime
This is the kind of dish that works at brunch, on a picnic blanket, or as a refreshing side at your next BBQ. It’s naturally vegan, gluten-free, and crowd-pleasing.
Whether you’re after a vegan picnic salad with zucchini and fruit or a standout potluck side, this one’s light, colorful, and ultra seasonal.
Make It a Meal?
Add cooked quinoa, lentils, or grilled tofu for a more filling twist on this summer favorite.
Light, Lively, and Perfectly Seasonal
This zingy vegan courgette and cherry salad is more than just pretty—it’s packed with bright flavors, natural sweetness, and plant-based goodness.
It’s the kind of dish that reminds us how exciting simple, seasonal ingredients can be.
Ingredients
- 1 medium courgette zucchini, shaved into thin ribbons
- 1 cup fresh cherries pitted and halved
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice or white balsamic vinegar
- 1 tsp maple syrup optional, for balance
- ½ tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs: mint basil, or parsley, to garnish
- Optional toppings: toasted pumpkin seeds sunflower seeds, or chopped pistachios
Instructions
Prep the Courgette:
- Use a vegetable peeler or mandoline to slice the courgette into thin ribbons.
Make the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice or vinegar, maple syrup (if using), mustard, salt, and pepper.
Toss & Combine:
- In a shallow ceramic dish, gently toss courgette ribbons and cherry halves with the dressing until evenly coated.
Garnish & Serve:
- Top with fresh herbs and optional seeds or nuts for texture. Serve immediately as a starter or side dish.
Notes
- Use yellow and green courgettes for added color.
- Swap cherries with pomegranate seeds or strawberries if out of season.
- Pairs beautifully with grilled tofu or crusty bread.
Frequently Asked Questions About Our Zingy Courgette & Cherry Ribbon Salad
🥒 What makes this salad “zingy”?
It features thin ribbons of fresh courgette (zucchini) tossed with juicy cherries, a bright citrus vinaigrette, and fresh herbs—resulting in a vibrant, refreshing dish perfect for summer.
🍒 Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh?
Fresh cherries are ideal for texture and flavor, but thawed and well-drained frozen cherries also work well in a pinch.
🧀 Is this salad vegan?
Yes, the base recipe is entirely vegan. You can, however, add optional toppings like vegan cheese or toasted nuts for extra flavor and crunch.
🍋 What dressing complements these flavors?
A citrus-based vinaigrette—made with lemon or lime juice, olive oil, a touch of maple syrup or agave, and a dash of mustard—balances the natural sweetness of the cherries and the mildness of the courgette beautifully.
🥄 How do I prepare the vegetable ribbons?
Use a vegetable peeler or mandoline to create thin, even ribbons. If you prefer, you can flower-cut the courgettes into spirals or ribbons for a decorative twist.
🌿 What herbs pair well with this salad?
Fresh mint or basil brings a lovely herbaceous lift and brightness that enhances the overall freshness of the salad.
🧊 Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prepare the components in advance, but for best texture, dress the salad right before serving. If dressed early, store it in a sealed container for up to several hours.
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